TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- The Southeastern Conference college football clash between No. 2 Georgia and No. 6 Alabama remains on schedule for Saturday night despite the looming arrival of Hurricane Isaias along the U.S. Gulf Coast. President Donald Trump announced he will no longer attend the game, stating it is vital to have first responders and law enforcement focused on the storm rather than the safety of the President.
Trump posted on his social media that he will miss the game but promised to visit both teams at a later date. Forecasters warned of significant surge, damaging winds, and flooding. ESPN's College Game Day show was moved indoors, and Alabama officials shortened tailgating hours, barring tents due to high wind concerns. Tuscaloosa sits about 200 miles north of the coast, with conditions potentially soggy by the 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff.
Georgia's campus in Athens is 275 miles from Alabama. Team travel plans remain unchanged. High schools and colleges along the coast have altered plans, including the Southwestern Athletic Conference moving Florida A&M's game at Alabama State to Friday morning. Both coaches earlier this week said they were handling schedules as usual, focusing on preparation despite the uncertainty.
It remains one of the biggest games of the season, with historical precedence of games being postponed due to Gulf Coast hurricanes.
Source: ESPN General · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing